Revelation 2:10-11 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death.

The above text is from the letter to the church in Smyrna, one of the seven churches to receive such letters. Each letter is tailored to the circumstances peculiar to that church at the time. Smyrna was experiencing virulent persecution and this letter was sent to them to encourage and promise them that even if they die, no hurt would come to them by the second death. “What?” you ask. The second death speaks of eternal separation from God. (Read Revelation 20: 1-6). Each letter to the churches pointed out their individual strengths as well as their errors or weaknesses and the need for change. To the extent that there was repentance and a new commitment to be faithful, a specific reward was promised. It is noteworthy however that for each of them the expectation was the same – that they should be over-comers.

The concept of benefits and rewards is evidenced throughout the Scriptures. God is a loving caring Father and takes pleasure in rewarding his children both in the natural and spiritual realms. We should dive into the Word to ferret out his promises and allow them to enrich our lives and fuel our faith for whatever circumstances may emerge so that we too can be over-comers.